10 Local Releases to Look Forward To in 2012

We're only a few days in to 2012, but it looks like local bands are already gearing up to issue brand new releases to usher the year in.

With songs sneaking onto the net as we write, we figured it was time to shed a light on what's coming up from some of the Valley's best. Did we miss something? Let us know what local release you're most excited about in 2012.

Here are the upcoming local albums we are most excited to hear.

Black Carl- The Fool Black Carl wraps up their bluesy record club series at Crescent Ballroom on Saturday, January 7 with the release of The Fool on colored vinyl.

Miniature Tigers- Mia Pharaoh Although technically a "Brooklyn" band, the Tigers have roots in Phoenix. The band is currently offering a free download of the joyful ditty, "Boomerang." After seeing them open for Tennis last month, I can say that Mia Pharaoh's songs will take the band in a dancy direction, picking up where "Gold Skull" left off.

The album is currently streaming on St. Ranger's BandCamp page, and it sounds pretty great so far. I'm sure it will sound even better once it's released on vinyl on February 16. St. Ranger plays dreamy indie pop a la Grizzly Bear and The Morning Benders that should accompany a trip to whatever destination is on the album cover.

These nostalgic rockers have a new album in the works, and plan on issuing a single called "Fire Ring" before that. You can listen to an exclusive stream of the B-side, "Weekend Habit," right here.

Broloaf The only thing Broloaf loves more than partying like the Jersey Shore cast is the Fourth of July. The band has a 7-inch record, a music video, and an outrageous show in the works to accompany its patriotism. Authority Zero- Less Rhythm More Booze

Releasing a second live album is a risky move, but anyone who has seen these reggae rockers knows that they consistently put on a good show. Plus, Less Rhythm More Booze comes with a 70 minute DVD, so you can see Jason Devore lay into "Rattlin' Bog" over and over again.